Thermal management equipment and energy storage equipment

Abstract

This invention discloses a thermal management device, comprising a refrigeration flow path, which includes a first heat exchanger, a compressor, a second heat exchanger, and a first throttling element. The first heat exchanger has a first flow channel and a second flow channel, the first flow channel being capable of exchanging heat with the second flow channel. The second heat exchanger has a third flow channel and a fourth flow channel, the third flow channel being capable of exchanging heat with the fourth flow channel. The second flow channel, compressor, third flow channel, and first throttling element are connected in series. The first heat exchange flow path includes a first drive pump, a first interface section, and a third heat exchanger. The second heat exchange flow path includes a second drive pump, a second interface section, and a fourth heat exchanger. In a first state, the fourth flow channel and the second interface section are connected in series or in parallel, and the parallel or series-connected fourth flow channel and second interface section are connected in series with the fourth heat exchanger and the second drive pump. The thermal management device of this invention can reduce the compressor load, reduce energy consumption, and has good economic efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of energy storage thermal management technology, specifically to a thermal management device and an energy storage device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, thermal management equipment is used for the thermal management of energy storage cells and power devices. As the energy consumption and heat generation of power devices gradually increase, air cooling can no longer meet the requirements. In related technologies, heat exchange is achieved through evaporators and water circuits using compression refrigeration, with a dry cooler connected in series in the water circuit. The dry cooler and compression refrigeration work together to provide thermal management for the energy storage cells and power devices. However, this thermal management method does not fully consider the heat dissipation difference between energy storage cells and power devices. Since the operating temperature of the energy storage cells is lower than that of the power devices, the temperature of the water circuit must meet the temperature requirements of the energy storage cells. However, the power devices do not need to be maintained at such a low temperature. The power devices and energy storage cells are connected in series or parallel in the same water circuit and cannot be distinguished. Therefore, in order to meet the temperature requirements of the energy storage cells, the energy consumption of the entire system is relatively high, which is not economical. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application is based on the inventor's discoveries and understanding of the following facts and problems:

[0004] This application discloses a thermal management device, including a refrigeration flow path, which includes a first heat exchanger, a compressor, a second heat exchanger, and a first throttling element. The first heat exchanger has a first flow channel and a second flow channel, which can exchange heat with the second flow channel. The second heat exchanger has a third flow channel and a fourth flow channel, which can exchange heat with the fourth flow channel. The second flow channel, the compressor, the third flow channel, and the first throttling element are connected in series. The second flow channel is connected to the suction side of the compressor, and the third flow channel of the second heat exchanger is connected to the discharge side of the compressor.

[0005] The first heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of the energy storage battery. The first heat exchange flow path includes a first drive pump and a first interface section.

[0006] The third heat exchanger is an air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0007] The second heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of power devices. The second heat exchange flow path includes a second drive pump and a second interface section.

[0008] The fourth heat exchanger is an air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0009] The thermal management equipment has a first state in which the first flow channel, the first interface, the third heat exchanger and the first drive pump are connected in series; the fourth flow channel and the second interface are connected in series or in parallel, and the fourth flow channel and the second interface, which are connected in parallel or in series, are connected in series with the fourth heat exchanger and the second drive pump.

[0010] The power device is liquid-cooled for thermal management through the second interface section. The second interface section is connected in series or in parallel with the fourth flow channel section of the second heat exchanger in the second heat exchange flow path. It can be fully cooled by liquid cooling and is in a different flow path from the first interface section. The temperature of the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path can be controlled according to the needs of each flow path, so as to ensure heat dissipation, reduce energy consumption, reduce energy waste, and improve economy.

[0011] The present invention also proposes an energy storage device, including a thermal management device, which includes a refrigeration flow path, the refrigeration flow path including a first heat exchanger, a compressor, a second heat exchanger, and a first throttling element; the first heat exchanger has a first flow channel section and a second flow channel section, the first flow channel section being able to exchange heat with the second flow channel section; the second heat exchanger has a third flow channel section and a fourth flow channel section, the third flow channel section being able to exchange heat with the fourth flow channel section; the second flow channel section, the compressor, the third flow channel section and the first throttling element are connected in series, the second flow channel section is connected to the suction side of the compressor, and the third flow channel section of the second heat exchanger is connected to the discharge side of the compressor;

[0012] The first heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of the energy storage battery. The first heat exchange flow path includes a first drive pump and a first interface section.

[0013] The third heat exchanger is an air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0014] The second heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of power devices. The second heat exchange flow path includes a second drive pump and a second interface section.

[0015] The fourth heat exchanger is an air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0016] The thermal management equipment has a first state in which the first flow channel, the first interface, the third heat exchanger and the first drive pump are connected in series; the fourth flow channel and the second interface are connected in series or in parallel, and the fourth flow channel and the second interface, which are connected in parallel or in series, are connected in series with the fourth heat exchanger and the second drive pump.

[0017] The thermal management device also includes a first load section and a second load section; the first interface section includes a first inlet section and a first outlet section, and the first load section is connected between the first inlet section and the first outlet section; the second interface section includes a second inlet section and a second outlet section, and the second load section is connected between the second inlet section and the second outlet section.

[0018] It also includes a battery and a power device, with the first load section exchanging heat with the battery and the second load section exchanging heat with the power device.

[0019] The power device is liquid-cooled for thermal management through the second interface section. The second interface section is connected in series or in parallel with the fourth flow channel section of the second heat exchanger in the second heat exchange flow path. It can be fully cooled by liquid cooling and is in a different flow path from the first interface section. The temperature of the first heat exchange flow path and the second heat exchange flow path can be controlled according to the needs of each flow path, so as to ensure heat dissipation, reduce energy consumption, reduce energy waste, and improve economy. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the first state of Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the second state of Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the third state of Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the fourth state of Embodiment 1 of this application:

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the first state of Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the second state of Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the third state of Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the fourth state of Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the third state of Embodiment 3 of this application;

[0029] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the first or fourth state of Embodiment 6 of this application;

[0030] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the second state of Embodiment 6 of this application;

[0031] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the third state of Embodiment 6 of this application;

[0032] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the first or fourth state of the bypass branch in Embodiment 6 of this application;

[0033] Figure 14This is a schematic diagram of the second state including the bypass branch in Embodiment 6 of this application;

[0034] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the third state of Embodiment 6 of this application, including a bypass branch;

[0035] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of Embodiment 5 of this application;

[0036] Reference numerals: 1-Compressor; 2-First heat exchanger; 21-First flow channel section; 22-Second flow channel section; 3-First throttling element; 4-Second heat exchanger; 41-Third flow channel section; 42-Fourth flow channel section; 5-First interface section; 51-First inlet section; 52-First outlet section; 53-First load section; 6-Third heat exchanger; 7-Second drive pump; 8-Second interface section; 81-Second inlet section; 82-Second outlet section; 9-Fourth heat exchanger; 10-Valve assembly; 101-First valve port; 102-Second valve port; 103-Third valve port; 104-Fourth valve port; 105-Fifth valve port; 106-Sixth valve port Valve port; 107-Seventh valve port; 108-Eighth valve port; 109-Ninth valve port; 110-Tenth valve port; 111-Eleventh valve port; 112-Twelfth valve port; 11-Heating element; 12-Second throttling element; 13-Fifth heat exchanger; 14-First drive pump; 113-Thirteenth valve port; 114-Fourteenth valve port; 115-Fifteenth valve port; 116-Sixteenth valve port; 117-Seventeenth valve port; 118-Eighteenth valve port; 119-Nineteenth valve port; 120-Twentieth valve port; 121-Twenty-first valve port; 122-Twenty-second valve port; 123-Twenty-third valve port; 124-Bypass branch. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below, with examples of these embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0038] Example 1

[0039] like Figures 1-4A thermal management device includes a refrigeration flow path, which includes a first heat exchanger 2, a compressor 1, a second heat exchanger 4, and a first throttling element 3. The first heat exchanger 2 has a first flow channel 21 and a second flow channel 22, and the first flow channel 21 can exchange heat with the second flow channel 22. The second heat exchanger 4 has a third flow channel 41 and a fourth flow channel 42, and the third flow channel 41 can exchange heat with the fourth flow channel 42. The second flow channel 22, the compressor 1, the third flow channel 41, and the first throttling element 3 are connected in series. The second flow channel 22 is connected to the suction side of the compressor 1, and the third flow channel 41 of the second heat exchanger 4 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 1.

[0040] The first heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of the energy storage battery. The first heat exchange flow path includes a first drive pump 14 and a first interface section 5.

[0041] The third heat exchanger 6 is an air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0042] The second heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of power devices. The second heat exchange flow path includes a second drive pump 7 and a second interface section 8.

[0043] The fourth heat exchanger 9 is an air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0044] The thermal management device has a first state in which the first flow channel 21, the first interface 5, the third heat exchanger 6 and the first drive pump 14 are connected in series; the fourth flow channel 42 is connected in series or in parallel with the second interface 8, and the fourth flow channel 42 and the second interface 8, which are connected in parallel or in series, are connected in series with the fourth heat exchanger 9 and the second drive pump.

[0045] In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 4 are plate heat exchangers, and the third heat exchanger 6 and the fourth heat exchanger 9 are dry coolers. The compressor 1, the third flow channel 41 of the second heat exchanger 4, the first throttling element 3, and the second flow channel 22 of the first heat exchanger 2 are connected in sequence to form a refrigeration module. The first interface 5 is used to connect to the first load 53, which is used for the thermal management of the battery. The second interface 8 is used to connect to the second load 83, which is used for the thermal management of power devices, such as PCS and / or DC-DC converters. The first flow channel 21 and the fourth flow channel 42 are used to circulate the cooling medium and exchange heat with the refrigeration module. Depending on the ambient temperature, the thermal management device needs to operate in different states to balance energy consumption and thermal management effectiveness. In the first state, the first heat exchanger 2 acts as an evaporator, the second heat exchanger 4 acts as a condenser, and the first flow channel 21, the first interface 5, the third heat exchanger 6, and the first drive pump 14 are connected in series to form a first loop, which can perform thermal management on the battery. The fourth flow channel 42 is connected in series with the second interface 8, and the fourth flow channel 42, the second interface 8, the fourth heat exchanger 9, and the second water pump are connected in series to form a second loop, which is used for thermal management of the power devices. In the first state, the compressor 1 is running, and the cooling medium enters the first flow channel 21 of the first heat exchanger 2, where it exchanges heat with the refrigerant inside the second flow channel 22, resulting in a temperature drop and forming a low-temperature cooling medium. Under the action of the first drive pump 14, the low-temperature cooling medium enters the first load section 53 through the first interface 5 to cool the battery. Furthermore, the cooling medium that absorbs the heat from the battery enters the third heat exchanger 6. Natural cooling is performed, and finally the medium returns to the first flow channel 21 to complete the first loop cycle. At the same time, the third flow channel 41 and the fourth flow channel 42 of the second heat exchanger 4 exchange heat, and the cooling medium in the second loop becomes a medium-temperature cooling medium. Since the temperature of the power device is higher than the temperature of the second heat exchanger 4, under the action of the second drive pump 7, the medium-temperature cooling medium enters the second load section 83 through the second interface section 8 to cool the power device. Further, after passing through the second load section 83, the medium-temperature cooling medium becomes a high-temperature cooling medium. Under the action of the second drive pump 7, it enters the fourth heat exchanger 9 for natural cooling and heat dissipation. The cooled cooling medium returns to the fourth flow channel 42 to complete the cycle. For the battery, the third heat exchanger 6 is for natural cooling, and the first heat exchanger 2 is for compression refrigeration. It has two-stage thermal management and mixed refrigeration, which works together to dissipate heat and make full use of the natural cold source, thereby reducing the system's energy consumption and improving economy.For the power devices, cooling is achieved by a medium-temperature refrigerant passing through the second heat exchanger 4. Compared to the related technologies where both the battery and power devices undergo compression and refrigeration through the first heat exchanger 2, the power device cooling method in this embodiment reduces the load on the compressor 1, resulting in greater energy savings. Furthermore, the low-temperature refrigerant passing through the fourth heat exchanger 9 first passes through the fourth flow channel 42, prioritizing battery cooling and preventing thermal runaway. Liquid cooling thermal management of the power devices is achieved through the second interface section 8, which is connected in series or parallel with the fourth flow channel 42 of the second heat exchanger 4. In the first state, the second heat exchanger 4 functions as a condenser, and when the compressor 1 is operating, the temperature of the second heat exchanger 4 is lower than that of the power device. The connection method utilizes the temperature difference between the second heat exchanger 4 and the power device to cool the power device, while the first heat exchanger 2, which acts as an evaporator, only needs thermal management of the first interface section 5. This reduces the load on the compressor 1, lowers energy consumption, and improves economic efficiency. Liquid cooling thermal management of the power device is achieved through the second interface section, which is connected in series or parallel with the fourth flow channel of the second heat exchanger in the second heat exchange path, and is in a different flow path from the first interface section. This allows for separate temperature control of the first and second heat exchange paths according to the needs of each path, reducing energy consumption, minimizing energy waste, and improving economic efficiency.

[0046] Optionally, the thermal management device further includes a first load section 53 and a second load section 83; the first interface section 5 includes a first inlet section 51 and a first outlet section 52, the first load section 53 is connected between the first inlet section 51 and the first outlet section 52, the second interface section 8 includes a second inlet section 81 and a second outlet section 82, and the second load section 83 is connected between the second inlet section 81 and the second outlet section 82.

[0047] Optionally, the second drive pump 7 is located between the fourth heat exchanger 9 and the fourth flow channel section 42;

[0048] In this embodiment, the outlet of the first drive pump 14 is connected to the first flow channel 21, and the inlet of the first drive pump 14 is connected to the third heat exchanger 6; the outlet of the second drive pump 7 is connected to the fourth flow channel 42, and the inlet of the second drive pump 7 is connected to the fourth heat exchanger 9; thus, the temperature of the cooling medium in the second drive pump 7 is lower, which is beneficial to improving the service life of the second drive pump 7.

[0049] Optionally, the thermal management device has a second state, such as Figure 2 In the second state, the first flow channel section 21, the first interface section 5, and the first drive pump 14 are connected in series; the fourth flow channel section 42, the second interface section 8, the fourth heat exchanger 9, the third heat exchanger 6, and the second drive pump 7 are connected in series.

[0050] In this embodiment, when the ambient temperature is high, the thermal management device operates in the second state. At this time, the first flow channel 21, the first interface 5, and the first drive pump 14 are connected in series to form a third loop for cooling the battery. The fourth flow channel 42, the second interface 8, the fourth heat exchanger 9, the third heat exchanger 6, and the second drive pump 7 are connected in series to form a fourth loop for cooling the power devices and the second heat exchanger 4.

[0051] Optionally, thermal management devices include a third state, such as Figure 3 In the third state, the first flow channel section 21, the third heat exchanger 6, and the first drive pump 14 are connected in series; the fourth flow channel section 42, the second interface section 8, the fourth heat exchanger 9, the first interface section 5, and the first drive pump 14 are connected in series.

[0052] In this embodiment, when the temperature is low, the thermal management device operates in the third state. At this time, in order for the battery to work in a suitable environment, the battery needs to be heated. The compressor 1 is running, and the fourth flow channel 42, the second interface 8, the fourth heat exchanger 9, the first interface 5, and the first drive pump 14 are connected in series to form a fifth loop. In the fifth loop, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the compressor 1 outlet exchanges heat with the cooling medium in the fourth flow channel 42 when it passes through the third flow channel 41. The cooling medium is heated to a high temperature. Furthermore, the cooling medium passes through the second... Interface section 8, since the second interface section 8 is connected to the second load section 83, the second load section 83 exchanges heat with the power device. Therefore, the cooling medium is reheated by the heat generated by the power device. Under the action of the second drive pump 7, the heated cooling medium reaches the first interface section 5 and heats the battery through the first load section 53. The first flow channel section 21, the third heat exchanger 6, and the first drive pump 14 are connected in series to form the sixth loop, which absorbs heat from the environment and supplies it to the fifth loop. The battery is heated by the heat of the power device, which helps to reduce energy consumption and improve economy.

[0053] Optionally, it also includes a heating element 11, which is connected in series with the first interface portion 5.

[0054] When the ambient temperature is extremely low, the heat pump heating method in the third state can no longer maintain the operating temperature of the battery. At this time, it is necessary to turn on the heating element 11 to heat the refrigerant. In this embodiment, the heating element 11 is a PTC heater. In other embodiments, other types of heating elements 11 can be used.

[0055] Even in low ambient temperatures, thermal management equipment can operate in a fourth state, such as... Figure 4In the fourth mode, the system connection method is the same as in the first state. The difference is that in the fourth state, the compressor 1 is in the off state, the battery is naturally cooled by the third heat exchanger 6, and the power devices are naturally cooled by the fourth heat exchanger 9, which is more energy-efficient.

[0056] Optionally, it also includes a second throttling element 12 and a fifth heat exchanger 13, with the fifth heat exchanger 13 connected in series with the second throttling element 12, and the first flow channel section 21 and the first throttling element 3 connected in series connected in parallel with the second throttling element 12 and the fifth heat exchanger 13 connected in series.

[0057] In this embodiment, the first throttling element 3 and the second throttling element 12 are both expansion valves. In other embodiments, they can be capillary tubes, etc. In this embodiment, the fifth heat exchanger 13 is a dehumidifying evaporator. When the conditions are met, the second throttling element 12 is opened, and dehumidification is performed through the fifth heat exchanger 13.

[0058] Optionally, it also includes a valve assembly 10, which enables the thermal management device to operate in a first state, a second state, or a third state.

[0059] In this embodiment, the valve assembly 10 includes a first valve and a second valve. The first valve includes a first valve port 101 connected to the outlet of the fourth heat exchanger 9; a second valve port 102 connected to the inlet of the first interface portion 5; a third valve port 103 connected to the outlet of the first interface portion 5; a fourth valve port 104 connected to the inlet of the third heat exchanger 6; a fifth interface 105; a sixth valve port 106; and a seventh valve port 107. 7. The seventh valve port 107 is connected to the outlet of the first flow channel section 21, and the eighth valve port 108 is connected to the inlet of the second drive pump 7. The second valve includes the ninth valve port 109, which is connected to the inlet of the first drive pump 14; the tenth valve port 110, which is connected to the sixth valve port 106; the eleventh valve port 111, which is connected to the fifth valve port; and the twelfth valve port 112, which is connected to the outlet of the third heat exchanger 6.

[0060] When the thermal management equipment is operating in the first or fourth state, the first valve port 101 and the eighth valve port 108 of the first valve are connected, the second valve port 102 and the fifth valve port are connected, the third valve port 103 and the fourth valve port 104 are connected, and the sixth valve port 106 and the seventh valve port 107 are connected; the ninth valve port 109 and the twelfth valve port 112 of the second valve are connected; and the tenth valve port 110 and the eleventh valve port 111 are connected.

[0061] When the equipment is operating in the second state, the first valve port 101 of the first valve element is connected to the fourth valve port 104, the second valve port 102 is connected to the seventh valve port 107, the third valve port 103 is connected to the sixth valve port 106, and the fifth valve port is connected to the eighth valve port 108. The ninth valve port 109 of the second valve element is connected to the tenth valve port 110, and the eleventh valve port 111 is connected to the twelfth valve port 112.

[0062] When the thermal management equipment is operating in the third state, the first valve port 101 of the first valve element is connected to the second valve port 102, the third valve port 103 is connected to the eighth valve port 108, the fourth valve port 104 is connected to the seventh valve port 107, and the fifth valve port is connected to the sixth valve port 106; the ninth valve port 109 of the second valve element is connected to the tenth valve port 110, and the eleventh valve port 111 is connected to the twelfth valve port 112.

[0063] In this embodiment, the first valve is an eight-way valve and the second valve is a four-way valve. In other embodiments, the valve assembly 10 may be provided with only one ten-way valve or a twelve-way valve, or with three four-way valves or one six-way valve plus one four-way valve.

[0064] In other embodiments, the valve assembly may use only one eight-way valve.

[0065] Example 2

[0066] like Figures 5-8 The difference from Embodiment 1 is that in this embodiment, the fourth flow channel 42 and the second interface 8 are connected in parallel, and the parallel fourth flow channel 42 and the second interface 8 are connected in series with the fourth heat exchanger 9 and the second water pump. Everything else is the same as in Embodiment 1. Using a parallel connection reduces the system's flow resistance, lowers energy consumption, and extends the system's service life.

[0067] Example 3

[0068] like Figure 9 When using the six-way valve and the four-way valve, the thermal management equipment includes a third state. In the third state, the first flow channel section 21, the second drive pump 7, the second interface section 8, the third heat exchanger 6, and the fourth heat exchanger 9 are connected in series; the fourth flow channel section 42, the first drive pump 14, and the first interface section 5 are connected in series. In this state, the fourth heat exchanger 9 is connected to the first heat exchanger 2, but not to the second heat exchanger 4.

[0069] Example 4

[0070] A thermal management device includes a refrigeration flow path, which includes a first heat exchanger 2, a compressor 1, a second heat exchanger 4, and a first throttling element 3. The first heat exchanger 2 has a first flow channel 21 and a second flow channel 22, and the first flow channel 21 can exchange heat with the second flow channel 22. The second heat exchanger 4 has a third flow channel 41 and a fourth flow channel 42, and the third flow channel 41 can exchange heat with the fourth flow channel 42. The second flow channel 22, the compressor 1, the third flow channel 41, and the first throttling element 3 are connected in series. The second flow channel 22 is connected to the suction side of the compressor 1, and the third flow channel 41 of the second heat exchanger 4 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 1.

[0071] The first heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of the energy storage battery. The first heat exchange flow path includes a first drive pump 14 and a first interface section 5.

[0072] The third heat exchanger 6 is an air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0073] The second heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of power devices. The second heat exchange flow path includes a second drive pump 7 and a second interface section 8.

[0074] The fourth heat exchanger 9 is an air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0075] The thermal management device has a first state in which the first flow channel 21, the first interface 5, the third heat exchanger 6 and the first drive pump 14 are connected in series; the fourth flow channel 42 is connected in series or in parallel with the second interface 8, and the fourth flow channel 42 and the second interface 8, which are connected in parallel or in series, are connected in series with the fourth heat exchanger 9 and the second drive pump.

[0076] The thermal management device also includes a first load section 53 and a second load section 83; the first interface section 5 includes a first inlet section 51 and a first outlet section 52, the first load section 53 is connected between the first inlet section 51 and the first outlet section 52, the second interface section 8 includes a second inlet section 81 and a second outlet section 82, the second load section 83 is connected between the second inlet section 81 and the second outlet section 82.

[0077] It also includes a battery and a power device, with the first load part 53 contacting the battery for heat exchange and the second load part 83 contacting the power device for heat exchange.

[0078] Liquid cooling thermal management of the power device is achieved through the second interface section 8. The second interface section 8 is connected in series or in parallel with the fourth flow channel section 42 of the second heat exchanger 4. In the first state, the second heat exchanger 4 acts as a condenser. When the compressor 1 is working, the temperature of the second heat exchanger 4 is lower than the temperature of the power device. Therefore, this connection method can make full use of the temperature difference between the second heat exchanger 4 and the power device to cool the power device. The first heat exchanger 2, which acts as an evaporator, only needs to perform thermal management on the first interface section 5, thereby reducing the load on the compressor 1, reducing energy consumption, and achieving better economic efficiency.

[0079] Example 5

[0080] A method for controlling a thermal management device includes the following steps:

[0081] Obtain the ambient temperature T1;

[0082] If the ambient temperature T1 is in the first range, the thermal management unit will operate in the first state.

[0083] If the ambient temperature T1 is in the second range, the thermal management unit will operate in the second state.

[0084] If the ambient temperature T1 is in the third range, the thermal management unit will operate in the third state.

[0085] If the ambient temperature T1 is in the fourth range, the thermal management unit will operate in the fourth state.

[0086] In this embodiment, the second interval corresponds to the high temperature environment in summer, such as above 35 degrees Celsius; the third interval corresponds to the low temperature environment in winter, such as below -15 degrees Celsius; the first interval corresponds to the transitional season environment between late spring and early autumn, such as 15-35 degrees Celsius; and the fourth interval corresponds to the transitional season environment between late spring and late autumn, such as -15 degrees Celsius to 15 degrees Celsius. The specific temperature limits are defined according to the actual situation. The thermal management device is equipped with multiple temperature and pressure sensors.

[0087] In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 415 can be plate heat exchangers, or shell-and-tube heat exchangers, which are existing technologies and will not be described in detail here.

[0088] In the embodiments of this application, the first load portion 53 and the second load portion 83 are both liquid cooling plates, which are existing technologies and will not be described in detail here.

[0089] Example 6

[0090] The difference from Embodiment 1 is that in this embodiment, in other embodiments, the valve assembly may use only one eight-way valve.

[0091] In this embodiment, the eight-way valve includes a thirteenth valve port, a fourteenth valve port, a fifteenth valve port, a sixteenth valve port, a seventeenth valve port, an eighteenth valve port, a nineteenth valve port, and a twentieth valve port. The thirteenth valve port is connected to the inlet of the third heat exchanger, the fourteenth valve port is connected to the outlet of the third heat exchanger, the fifteenth valve port is connected to the first outlet section, the sixteenth valve port is connected to the first inlet section, the seventeenth valve port is connected to the second drive pump, the eighteenth valve port is connected to the outlet of the fourth heat exchanger, the nineteenth valve port is connected to the outlet of the first flow channel section, and the twentieth valve port is connected to the first drive pump.

[0092] In the first and fourth states, the thirteenth valve port is connected to the twentieth valve port, the fourteenth valve port is connected to the fifteenth valve port, the sixteenth valve port is connected to the nineteenth valve port, and the seventeenth valve port is connected to the eighteenth valve port.

[0093] In the second state, the thirteenth valve port is connected to the eighteenth valve port, the fourteenth valve port is connected to the seventeenth valve port, the fifteenth valve port is connected to the twentieth valve port, and the sixteenth valve port is connected to the nineteenth valve port;

[0094] In the third state, the thirteenth valve port is connected to the twentieth valve port, the fourteenth valve port is connected to the nineteenth valve port, the fifteenth valve port is connected to the eighteenth valve port, and the sixteenth valve port is connected to the seventeenth valve port.

[0095] In this embodiment, a bypass branch is also included, which is connected in parallel with the fourth heat exchanger. The bypass branch includes a three-way valve, with the twenty-first valve port connected to the second outlet, the twenty-second valve port connected to the inlet of the fourth heat exchanger, and the twenty-third valve port connected between the outlet of the fourth heat exchanger and the eighteenth valve port. In the first, second, and fourth states, the twenty-first and twenty-second valve ports are connected, while the twenty-third valve port is not connected. In the third state, the twenty-first valve port is connected to the twenty-third valve port, at which time the fourth heat exchanger is bypassed.

[0096] In other embodiments, the bypass branch can be connected in parallel with the fourth heat exchanger and the second interface section, and in the third state, the fourth heat exchanger and the second interface section are bypassed.

[0097] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0098] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0099] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between components; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0100] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0101] In this application, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0102] Although the above embodiments have been shown and described, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present application. Any changes, modifications, substitutions and variations made to the above embodiments by those skilled in the art are within the protection scope of the present application.

[0103] It should be understood that in this application, the definitions of the outlet and inlet of each component may vary depending on the placement and installation direction of the pump. The outlet of each component in each embodiment of this application may be defined as the inlet in other technical solutions. Similarly, the inlet of each component in each embodiment of this application may be defined as the outlet in other technical solutions. This application will not list them one by one, but such simple variations are all within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A thermal management device, characterized in that, include The refrigeration flow path includes a first heat exchanger (2), a compressor (1), a second heat exchanger (4), and a first throttling element (3); the first heat exchanger (2) has a first flow channel (21) and a second flow channel (22), the first flow channel (21) being able to exchange heat with the second flow channel (22); the second heat exchanger (4) has a third flow channel (41) and a fourth flow channel (42), the third flow channel (41) being able to exchange heat with the fourth flow channel (42); the second flow channel (22), the compressor (1), the third flow channel (41) and the first throttling element (3) are connected in series, the second flow channel (22) is connected to the suction side of the compressor (1), and the third flow channel (41) of the second heat exchanger (4) is connected to the discharge side of the compressor (1); The first heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of the energy storage battery. The first heat exchange flow path includes a first drive pump (14) and a first interface section (5). The third heat exchanger (6) is an air-cooled heat exchanger. The second heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of power devices. The second heat exchange flow path includes a second drive pump (7) and a second interface section (8). The fourth heat exchanger (9) is an air-cooled heat exchanger; The thermal management device has a first state in which the first flow channel (21), the first interface (5), the third heat exchanger (6) and the first drive pump (14) are connected in series; the fourth flow channel (42) is connected in series or in parallel with the second interface (8), and the fourth flow channel (42) and the second interface (8) connected in parallel or in series are connected in series with the fourth heat exchanger (9) and the second drive pump.

2. The thermal management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermal management device further includes a first load section (53) and a second load section (83); the first interface section (5) includes a first inlet section (51) and a first outlet section (52), the first load section (53) is connected between the first inlet section (51) and the first outlet section (52), the second interface section (8) includes a second inlet section (81) and a second outlet section (82), and the second load section (83) is connected between the second inlet section (81) and the second outlet section (82).

3. The thermal management device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second drive pump (7) is located between the fourth heat exchanger (9) and the fourth flow channel (42).

4. The thermal management device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The thermal management device has a second state in which the first flow channel (21), the first interface (5), and the first drive pump (14) are connected in series; the fourth flow channel (42), the second interface (8), the fourth heat exchanger (9), the third heat exchanger (6), and the second drive pump (7) are connected in series.

5. The thermal management device according to claim 1 or 4, characterized in that, The thermal management device includes a third state in which the first flow channel (21), the third heat exchanger (6), and the first drive pump (14) are connected in series; and the fourth flow channel (42), the second interface (8), the fourth heat exchanger (9), the first interface (5), and the first drive pump (14) are connected in series.

6. The thermal management device according to claim 1 or 4, characterized in that, The thermal management device includes a third state in which the first flow channel (21), the second drive pump (7), the second interface (8), the third heat exchanger (6), and the fourth heat exchanger (9) are connected in series; and the fourth flow channel (42), the first drive pump (14), and the first interface (5) are connected in series.

7. The thermal management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a heating element (11), which is connected in series with the first interface portion (5).

8. The thermal management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a second throttling element (12) and a fifth heat exchanger (13), the fifth heat exchanger (13) being connected in series with the second throttling element (12), and the first flow channel (21) and the first throttling element (3) connected in series being connected in parallel with the second throttling element (12) and the fifth heat exchanger (13).

9. The thermal management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a valve assembly (10) that enables the thermal management device to operate in a first state, a second state, or a third state.

10. An energy storage device, characterized in that, The device includes a thermal management system, which includes a refrigeration flow path, comprising a first heat exchanger (2), a compressor (1), a second heat exchanger (4), and a first throttling element (3). The first heat exchanger (2) has a first flow channel (21) and a second flow channel (22), the first flow channel (21) being able to exchange heat with the second flow channel (22). The second heat exchanger (4) has a third flow channel (41) and a fourth flow channel (42), the third flow channel (41) being able to exchange heat with the fourth flow channel (42). The second flow channel (22), the compressor (1), the third flow channel (41), and the first throttling element (3) are connected in series, the second flow channel (22) being connected to the suction side of the compressor (1), and the third flow channel (41) of the second heat exchanger (4) being connected to the discharge side of the compressor (1). The first heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of the energy storage battery. The first heat exchange flow path includes a first drive pump (14) and a first interface section (5). The third heat exchanger (6) is an air-cooled heat exchanger. The second heat exchange flow path is capable of thermal management of power devices. The second heat exchange flow path includes a second drive pump (7) and a second interface section (8). The fourth heat exchanger (9) is an air-cooled heat exchanger; The thermal management device has a first state in which the first flow channel (21), the first interface (5), the third heat exchanger (6), and the first drive pump (14) are connected in series; the fourth flow channel (42) is connected in series or in parallel with the second interface (8), and the fourth flow channel (42) and the second interface (8) connected in parallel or in series are connected in series with the fourth heat exchanger (9) and the second drive pump; The thermal management device further includes a first load section (53) and a second load section (83); the first interface section (5) includes a first inlet section 51 and a first outlet section 52, the first load section (53) is connected between the first inlet section 51 and the first outlet section 52, the second interface section (8) includes a second inlet section 81 and a second outlet section 82, the second load section (83) is connected between the second inlet section 81 and the second outlet section 82; It also includes a battery and a power device, with the first load part (53) exchanging heat with the battery and the second load part (83) exchanging heat with the power device.

Images